Florence: Cinque Terre Small-Group Day Trip

Exploring the stunning seaside villages of Cinque Terre from Florence is a must-do for any Italy enthusiast. This small-group day trip whisks travelers to the colorful coastal towns, offering ample time to wander the charming streets, sample local cuisine, and soak in the breathtaking vistas. Traveling by minivan and boat, the tour guarantees a personalized experience under the guidance of knowledgeable local experts. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Italy explorer, this Cinque Terre adventure promises an unforgettable glimpse into one of the country’s most picturesque regions.

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Key Points

This small-group day trip from Florence offers an 8-hour guided adventure to the picturesque Cinque Terre villages of Vernazza, Monterosso, and Manarola.
The tour includes transportation via comfortable Mercedes minivan, a scenic boat ride, and free time to explore the charming towns at your own pace.
The price starts from $217.35 per person, with a maximum group size of 8 participants for a personalized experience.
Advance booking is recommended due to high demand, and a full refund is available for cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour.
The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility issues or pre-existing medical conditions, and restrictions apply on luggage and other items.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This Cinque Terre day trip from Florence to the UNESCO-listed coastal villages offers an 8-hour adventure.

You’ll visit the picturesque villages of Vernazza, Monterosso, and Manarola (or Corniglia in winter).

The price starts from $217.35 per person, and the small group is limited to 8 participants.

You can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

As this tour is likely to sell out, it’s best to check availability in advance.

Looking for more options in Corniglia? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

The day trip begins at Piazza Della Repubblica in Florence, where participants travel via a comfortable Mercedes minivan for the 2.5-hour journey to Manarola, one of the picturesque Cinque Terre villages.

The day trip begins at Piazza Della Repubblica in Florence, where participants travel via a comfortable Mercedes minivan for the 2.5-hour journey to Manarola, one of the picturesque Cinque Terre villages.

Activities include:

Sightseeing and free time to explore the charming towns.
A 40-minute boat ride from Manarola to Monterosso.
2 hours of free time in Monterosso and 1 hour in Vernazza.
The return trip by train (15 minutes) and minivan (2.5 hours).

Transportation Details

The tour includes an English-speaking driver and covers the cost of the shared boat ticket and coastal train ticket. These transportation methods allow visitors to fully experience the breathtaking Cinque Terre region.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, back problems, or pre-existing medical conditions. The group size is capped at 8 participants, ensuring a personalized and comfortable journey.

In case of inclement weather, the boat service may be canceled, and alternative transportation by train or minivan will be provided. Travelers are advised to pack light and leave oversized luggage at home.

What to Bring and Restrictions

Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat are recommended for the Cinque Terre day trip.

The tour also has some restrictions:

Oversize luggage and large bags aren’t allowed.
Non-folding wheelchairs are prohibited.
Alcohol and drugs aren’t permitted.
Unaccompanied minors can’t participate.

At least 5 paying participants are required for the tour to proceed.

These guidelines help ensure a smooth and comfortable experience for all travelers on the Cinque Terre adventure.

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Traveler Reviews

How do travelers rate the Cinque Terre day trip? Based on 39 reviews, the tour earns an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, such as Yaris and Leonardo. Many recommend bringing swimsuits for summer visits to enjoy the scenic ferry rides between charming towns.

The highlights include the charming villages, beautiful coastal views, and the flexibility to explore at one’s own pace.

While some note the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, the majority of travelers find it an excellent way to experience the UNESCO-listed Cinque Terre region.

There's plenty more to explore in Corniglia

Getting to Cinque Terre

To reach the picturesque Cinque Terre region, the provided day trip departs from Florence, taking visitors on a 2.5-hour journey by Mercedes minivan.

The transportation for the tour includes:

English-speaking driver
Shared boat ticket from Manarola to Monterosso
Coastal train ticket

However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, back problems, or pre-existing medical conditions.

Public boat operations also depend on weather conditions, with alternative transfers by train or minivan provided as needed.

The maximum group size is 8 participants.

Exploring the Charming Villages

The day trip takes visitors on a journey through the enchanting villages of Cinque Terre.

Travelers start in Manarola, admiring its colorful houses and tranquil harbor. Next, they board a boat for a scenic 40-minute ride to Monterosso, where they’ll have 2 hours to explore the largest village. Highlights include the medieval old town, sandy beaches, and seafood restaurants.

Travelers start in Manarola, then board a boat to scenic Monterosso, the largest village, with 2 hours to explore its old town, beaches, and seafood.

After, they continue to Vernazza, with its picturesque piazza and Castello Doria. With 1 hour of free time, visitors can wander the narrow streets, visit the church, and take in the breathtaking ocean vistas.

The tour efficiently showcases the unique charms of each Cinque Terre town.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour restrictions state that only service animals accompanying passengers with disabilities are permitted. Bringing non-service animals is not permitted due to safety and comfort concerns for all participants.

Is Wifi Available During the Trip?

Wifi is not mentioned as an amenity provided during the day trip to Cinque Terre. The tour details focus on transportation, activities, and restrictions, but don’t indicate if wifi is available for travelers on the excursion.

Can I Leave the Group and Explore on My Own?

While the tour provides a guided experience, participants generally have free time to explore the Cinque Terre villages on their own. However, they’re expected to rejoin the group at designated meeting points and times.

Are There Any Vegetarian/Vegan Food Options?

The tour doesn’t include meals, but there are vegetarian and vegan options available in the charming Cinque Terre villages visited. Travelers can explore the local cuisine and dining options during their free time.

How Do I Contact the Tour Operator During the Trip?

If travelers need to contact the tour operator during the trip, they can use the emergency contact information provided in the tour details. The guide will also be available to assist with any questions or concerns that arise.

The Sum Up

This guided day trip from Florence to Cinque Terre offers a chance to discover the region’s breathtaking natural beauty and picturesque coastal villages. Travelers can enjoy the convenience of round-trip transportation and a scenic boat ride, as well as ample free time to explore on their own. With a small group size, the tour provides a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides. Advance booking is recommended due to high demand.